Quantitative Researcher

We are currently working with a major hedge fund, seeking an experienced Quantitative Researcher to join a highly successful systematic trading pod, partnering directly with an established quantamental Portfolio Manager who has consistently generated multi-million dollar PnL and is now looking to expand the team. This is a unique opportunity for an alpha-focused researcher to play a key role in the development of systematic trading strategies across global futures markets, with a clearly defined path towards Sub-PM and Portfolio Manager responsibilities.

The Role

Working directly alongside the Portfolio Manager, you will be responsible for researching, developing and implementing systematic alpha strategies across a diversified universe of liquid futures markets. This role is ideally suited to someone who enjoys taking ownership of the research process, from idea generation through to production, and is looking to progress beyond a traditional Quantitative Research position into a genuine risk-taking role.

Responsibilities

• Research and develop systematic alpha signals across multi-asset futures.
• Generate and validate new trading ideas using statistical and machine learning techniques.
• Analyse large structured and alternative datasets to identify predictive signals.
• Build robust research tools and production-quality code.
• Work closely with the Portfolio Manager to refine and enhance existing strategies.
• Contribute to the continued growth of a high-performing systematic trading business.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience generating alpha within a systematic trading environment.
• Strong quantitative research background, ideally within futures or other liquid asset classes.
• Excellent programming skills in Python and/or C++.
• MSc or PhD in Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, Statistics or another quantitative STEM discipline.
• Strong statistical and analytical skills with experience designing predictive models.
• Exposure to Machine Learning techniques such as Natural Language Processing, Neural Networks, Reinforcement Learning or other AI methodologies would be advantageous, but is not essential.
• A genuine passion for researching and developing systematic investment strategies.

What's on Offer

• Opportunity to work directly with a highly successful Portfolio Manager with an established track record.
• Significant ownership over alpha generation and research direction.
• Clear progression towards Sub-PM and Portfolio Manager responsibilities.
• Highly competitive base salary combined with an attractive PnL-linked bonus structure.
• Access to first-class infrastructure, technology and capital.
• A collaborative environment where strong ideas are recognised, implemented and rewarded.

If you're an experienced Quantitative Researcher looking to take ownership of alpha generation and accelerate your progression towards portfolio management, I'd be delighted to have a discreet conversation - j.gates@varopartners.com